Crutches suck, really badly.

Take breaks often.

Rest up. Not only is your body taking the strain of moving around on one leg and your arms, but your brain is also coping with learning this new way of getting around. Get plenty of sleep, take breaks and break any daunting tasks into chunks.

Make the most of being off your feet and catch up on all those series you've been meaning to watch. Who knew it was possible to watch all three series of Louie in two days?

]]>http://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/crutch-lifeTue, 07 Apr 2015 07:17:58 -0400<b>The struggle is real.</b>isabelleocnonadultWhile you're dealing with an injury and a whole new way of moving around here's some steps to take the pain out of yer sticks.nonadultRest up. Not only is your body taking the strain of moving around on one leg and your arms, but your brain is also coping with learning this new way of getting around. Get plenty of sleep, take breaks and break any daunting tasks into chunks.
Make the most of being off your feet and catch up on all those series you've been meaning to watch. Who knew it was possible to watch all three series of <i>Louie</i> in two days?nonadultWe're not going camping (sorry), you'll need a hands-free bag to carry daily things like your phone, notepad, chocolate Hobnobs. Expect to develop a very close relationship with your special carrying friend.nonadultHot cups of tea and crutches do not go well together, get a flask and you can fill it with tea, put it in the rucksack and enjoy all-day sippin'.
Forget traipsing to the kitchen for tea a hundred times a day and if you make a full flask for bed you can wake up with a hot cuppa in the morning. Small pleasures.nonadultGet a cast protector. <a href="http://www.limboproducts.co.uk/">Limbo</a> do some good ones that allow you to submerge your leg fully. Buy a shower stool or sturdy plastic stool from your local pound shop to sit on in the shower and if you need to, rest your leg on a bucket while you shower. Glamorous!nonadultCrutch grips will help you get around and absorb the impact on your hands. <a href="http://oarsomegrips.com/">Oarsome</a> do a great rubber sleeve that cushions impact and makes you feel more secure on your crutches. Or try <a href="http://www.flexivity.com/">Flexivity</a> gel-pad grips for adjustable cushioning while you're out and about.
Be sure to get the right size for your type of crutches.nonadultA bar stool is the perfect height for you to sit and rest your legs while you're food prepping. Or go for a wheely chair to make the endless fridge-chopping board-cooker trips a bit more bearable.nonadultUnless you have a kindly soul to make you dinner, the easiest way to eat on crutches is to pack your meal in a Tupperware box and carry it to the couch (as if you're sitting at the dining table in a cast, amirite?!)
The joy of eating on the sofa vs at the kitchen counter soon outweighs the downside of plastic.nonadultWhich brings us to eating, if you have a broken bone or torn ligament you need to eat right so your body can repair itself.
Talk to your doctor about the best way to eat to aid your recovery.
Here are some <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/carolynkylstra/healthy-eating-charts">healthy eating</a> charts to get you started.nonadultFoods high in vitamin C are also good for <a href="http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/ss10/acl.html">ligaments</a>, helping reduce inflammation to the injury site. Try kiwis, berries, peppers and good ol' broccoli to do some good.nonadultSometimes you'll be tired and you can't face making a trip to the kitchen, takeaway is your friend! Try to research places that aren't total junk, you can now often get proper meals instead of the usual pizzas. It's definitely ok to cheat once in a while.nonadultStairs are the worst and it will take you time to get used to them, don't be afraid of shuffling on your bum at first.
The saying "good leg to heaven, bad leg to hell" will help you negotiate steps and stairs. Going up? Your good leg goes up first. Going down? Lower your centre of gravity by moving your bad foot down first.nonadultHaving a leg in plaster can sometimes lead to circulation problems so your doctor may have put you on injections.
If you are on blood-thinning injections, remember the needle can slightly slanted so try to insert at a bit of an angle to make it easier. Loud singing helps to distract and looking away as it goes in can stop you from chickening out.nonadultEven if you haven't been prescribed blood-thinners, make sure to wiggle your toes regularly or if you can't, massage them to get the blood moving.
A good supply of <a href="https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=ma9XAQAAQBAJ&amp;pg=PA400&amp;lpg=PA400&amp;dq=oxygenated+blood+healing+process&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=JlJL6B_54b&amp;sig=i23Qp5vBxqC7-SnGFObnRfML9eU&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=_bgjVdu0E8veasfCgagO&amp;ved=0CDsQ6AEwBjgK#v=onepage&amp;q=oxygenated%20blood%20healing%20process&amp;f=false">oxygenated blood</a> will help the healing process. Get up and move when you can (hi toilet breaks!) and keep your leg raised with cushions above hip height to allow blood to drain back.nonadultDon't be afraid to ask for help, whether it's people holding doors open for you or getting friends to drop you over food shopping.
It's sometimes hard to imagine how hard it is on crutches so take advantage of the milk of human kindness as much as you can!nonadultGo with your body, if making a cup of tea and sitting at your desk pretending to work has tired you out, take a nap.
Pace yourself and don't feel defeated if you need to take some time out.nonadultIn the words of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_Af1qeouMc">Sheryl Crow</a> "no one said it would be easy, no one said it would be this hard".
Some days are going to suck, and that's to be expected. Make sure you are stocked with whatever will make your day easier, from ready meals to thoughtful friends or a glass of wine, stockpile things you can lean on when it gets tough.nonadult15 Women Discuss How They Asked For A Raise At Workhttp://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/women-talking-about-raises-v0em?utm_term=4ldqpia
Lean into better pay.

Asking for a raise can sometimes be scary.

When you've never asked for a raise before, it can feel really intimidating. And you're not alone in feeling that way.

“The thought of asking for a pay rise fills me with dread," a 29-year-old working in the publishing industry tells BuzzFeed Life. "I think this is largely a self-confidence thing. Even though I have often felt like I'm doing two or three people's jobs for the price of one, I look around me and think, 'But I'm not working as hard as so and so...', which stops me in my tracks.

“I have noticed that male colleagues seem to find it easier to talk up their achievements – and I imagine this attitude helps them enormously when the time comes to ask for a raise. I feel like I need to just fake this attitude in order to compete, but I resent having to behave in a way that doesn't feel natural. I would like somebody to notice the hard work I do, rather than have to shout about it!”

So how can you ask for the raise you deserve?

FOX/ Glee

Sian Butcher

Be very clear on why you deserve a raise.

Bee Barker, a senior digital marketing manager, says clarity is important when asking for a pay increase. “Be very clear on why you deserve a raise," she advises. "Raises are rarely going to be awarded if your only reason for asking is 'because I've been here the longest' or 'because someone else in another team got one'. Although these factors might have attributed to you asking, keep that to yourself and focus on having some clear and persuasive ways that you are worth paying more for.

“Think about ways you can prove your value. This might sound odd, but you ARE valuable to your team and your company. Obviously it's easier in sales or marketing roles as you can clearly prove where you have financially boosted the business and therefore use this as a strong argument. However, if you're an amazing team assistant then perhaps your value is in the fact you ensure everybody in your team is working to the best of their ability. If you write amazing copy, find out how this can be tracked back to a successful campaign. Think about the ways you have gone the extra mile or picked up additional projects. If you have stretched your job spec or remit in any way then you are adding value, and it's those aspects to highlight.”

Sian Butcher

Think about things you've done that have added value.

Asking is essential. “I'm in a job now where we're given fair pay rises each year, if the business can afford it," a 26-year-old working in digital media says. "Our contracts state that pay rises are discussed at annual reviews, so at my first one I was all geared up to ask for a raise. Then I got given one that was more than I was going to ask for! Because of that clarity and fairness around rises, I don't feel the need to ask any more, though if it wasn't forthcoming in a review, I would want to know why.

“In my last job, though, I always felt overworked and underpaid – so I tried to ask for raises as often as I could. I think I asked for four in the two years I worked there, the first one two months in when they changed my job title from the one I'd applied for. Each time I asked, I remembered a conversation with a friend from school to psych myself up – we'd talked a few years before about how women don't ask for pay rises as often as men, and that's how they get left behind on salary. So I would think of this friend, and tell myself to be brave for all the women out there who weren't getting raises each time I wanted to ask! And it worked – by the time I left I'd increased my salary by 50% from when I started.

“Top tip: Think about things you've done that have added value, and how much more than your job description you're offering. That's why you deserve more money! My least successful attempt to ask for a raise was done with an argument along the lines of 'I do loads, and also I'm trying to buy a house.' From that I learnt: Your employer doesn't give out money based on your personal circumstances, so don't even bother.”

]]>http://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/women-talking-about-raises-v0emTue, 24 Mar 2015 09:25:35 -0400<b>Lean into better pay.</b>isabelleocnonadult21 Genius Products From French Pharmacieshttp://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/french-beauty-products-v0em?utm_term=4ldqpia
Get in on these French skin secrets

Jenny Chang/ BuzzFeed

Bioderma Créaline Micellar Water £7.45

The original micellar water, Bioderma's Créaline solution is great for dry and sensitive skin. This gentle makeup remover is a staple for makeup artists because of its powerful cleansing abilities, without rubbing or scrubbing. Keep a bottle by your bedside table for a classier alternative to wipes.

Avène Cleanance Gel £7.87

A gentle soapless cleanser, Avène's Cleanance Gel is made for oily problem skin. Removes makeup effectively without stripping and is gentle on sensitive skins. After cleansing, spritz on Avène's Eau Thermale, a thermal water spray which will restore the natural PH of your skin. A must in hard water areas.

Bioderma Cicabio £4.80

A brilliant treatment for burns and irritated skin, this gentle cream sinks right in and helps fade scars. A little tube of this lasts for longer than you'd think, so it's great to have to hand in your bathroom.

]]>http://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/french-beauty-products-v0emThu, 12 Mar 2015 06:17:02 -0400<b>Get in on these French skin secrets</b>isabelleocnonadultnonadultThe original micellar water, Bioderma's Créaline solution is great for dry and sensitive skin. This gentle makeup remover is a staple for makeup artists because of its powerful cleansing abilities, without rubbing or scrubbing. Keep a bottle by your bedside table for a classier alternative to wipes.nonadultA gentle soapless cleanser, Avène's Cleanance Gel is made for oily problem skin. Removes makeup effectively without stripping and is gentle on sensitive skins. After cleansing, spritz on Avène's Eau Thermale, a thermal water spray which will restore the natural PH of your skin. A must in hard water areas.nonadultA brilliant treatment for burns and irritated skin, this gentle cream sinks right in and helps fade scars. A little tube of this lasts for longer than you'd think, so it's great to have to hand in your bathroom.nonadultRêve de Miel means 'honey dream' and this thick lip balm is a total dream. It's thick without being greasy or shiny and it's totally soothing for chapped lips. A hero among lip balms, it's on the pricier end of the scale but it will last months and months.nonadultHei Poa Monoi oil is a summer classic with a floral smell that feels like waves at your feet and sand on your shoulders. Use it on wet skin for post-sun moisturising and in hair as a leave-in treatment. There's a few different scents to pick up but this one has gold shimmer powder for maximum beach babe vibes.nonadultThis wonder cream is great for stressed out skin. Whether it's sunburn, exzema, rosacea, sensitivity or you just want something soothing after using AHAs or retinols this gentle moisturiser calms and heals.nonadultFrench people love green clay. Buy ready-mixed pastes to use on your skin as a mask, mix with honey and oil for a hair-balancing treatment or make like Shailene Woodley and buy the powdered stuff to mix with water and drink.
NB - if you're planning on drinking clay, mix with water, leave to settle for a few hours and drink the water without ingesting the heavy sediments of clay at the bottom.nonadultOne of the best retinol creams on the market, Redermic promises to reduce wrinkles and improve the texture of the skin. Results are visible, quick and the little tube lasts and lasts. As with all retinols there is some sun sensitivity, so use at night and make sure to wear a high-factor SPF (min 30) in the day.nonadultThis anti-blister balm by Akileine is just the thing for nights out, preventing rubbing and chafing when you're in heels or new shoes.nonadultCheap and cheerful eau de colognes are easily found in French pharmacies. They're a great standby and the clean, fresh smell is a classic. Splash it on to refresh after a long day when you feel less than fragrant. Tip: use it to get mirrors really clean, leaving a lovely scent.nonadultA king among dry shampoos, Klorane's offering is ultralight and refreshes hair without that dusty, wig effect. It's a bit pricier than your average dry shampoo but a real treat, with oat milk to soothe your hair and scalp.nonadultA luxury product that lasts a lifetime, Caudalie's Pohlyphenol facial oil combines grape actives with nourishing plant oils for a seriously boosting nighttime treatment. Works on dry or combination skin to leave it glowing.nonadultHoméoplasmine is the cult beauty product that make up artists rave about. Great for irritated, chapped or dry skin this wonder product soothes and protects and contains soothing ingredients like calendula.nonadultBabycare products are so sophisticated French women have been stealing them for their own use for years. Mustela's gentle body lotion has a mix of vitamin E, shea butter, sweet almond oil and more for supersoft skin.nonadultNot strictly a pharmacy brand, Etat Pur is known for their range of targeted actives you can mix and match. Their hyaluronic serum is a seriously brilliant skin plumper, that delivers visible results quickly, smoothing out fine lines and giving youthful firmness.nonadultA legendary product, Phyto's straightening balm works wonders on frizzy, curly and afro hair and is compatible with heat-styling or air-drying. Made from 99% botanical ingredients, the more you use it the more it eliminates frizz, lasts forever too.nonadultEnter a French pharmacy or supermarket and you'll see a variety of shower gels that you never imagined possible. Ushuaia and Petit Marseillais are two of the best, choose from one of their dozens of scents for a totally dreamy shower.nonadultBiafine is the medicine cabinet standby that all French people rely on to heal everything from burns to sores, nappy rash and dry skin conditions. This thick emulsion is easily absorbed and tolerated by even sensitive skins.nonadultThe ideal cream for chapped and irritated winter skin, A-Derma's Epitheliale A.H cream also works on patches of eczema. Contains oat milk to calm redness and hyaluronic acid to heal.nonadultVichy's mineral-rich water is the perfect post cleansing spritz to incorporate into your routine. The water rebalances your skin PH before moisturiser, making product go further. Also great for refreshing in summer, this handy little spritz is a bargain product.nonadultForget the slightly fusty packaging, Rogé Cavaillès is one of the best-kept secrets of French pharmacies, their range of moisturising washes and creams will keep your skin looking its best. This shower and bath oil cleans without drying or irritating.nonadultHave you got any other genius products we should mention? Let us know in the comments.nonadult18 Beauty Tips From Real Brideshttp://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/wedding-beauty-tips-from-real-brides-v0em?utm_term=4ldqpia
Brides share their secrets with BuzzFeed Life.

Jenny Chang / BuzzFeed

Stick with tradition, if that's what you want.

Safa of My Big Fat Pakistani Wedding chose to be classically bridal with her wedding-day mehndi (a temporary henna tattoo): "As a South Asian girl, you grow up wearing mehndi. For example, when a close friend or relative gets married, you also apply mehndi as part of the celebrations.

"However, wearing mehndi for your own wedding – wearing bridal mehndi – is unlike anything you would have worn before. Particularly, if you choose to go with a traditional design, like I did. I think there is nothing more classically bridal than the look of mehndi designs, so intricate and elaborate, adorning a woman's hands and feet. That's exactly what I wanted as bride. Also, stepping my mehndi-adorned foot into my wedding Louboutins on my big day felt pretty damn good!"

But you don't have to do the traditional bridal thing.

Fashion journalist Naomi Attwood stuck to her normal style for her wedding:

"I had my hair done in a double victory roll-style quiff by a lovely hairdresser at The Painted Lady in Bethnal Green. Then they popped in a few small roses on wires from my florists, The Flower Appreciation Society. I also had a neon pink manicure at the salon. I did my own make-up, going for a very '80s turquoise smoky eye to match my Topshop earrings.

"There was no particular inspiration other than what suits me – a quiff and blue eyeshadow – and I was happy when I walked into the town hall on the morning of the wedding and the registrar said: ‘You do look like a bride, just offbeat.’"

Courtesy of Naomi Attwood

Run your look past your partner too.

Wedding planner Kellee Laura Dawkins went for a simple yet charming wedding that proves you don't have to pull out all the stops for a perfect day:

"I always leave special occasion looks to the pros, like local make-up artist Glam by Cham. I knew I wanted a fresh face look – something timeless with just a hint of drama – and the white liner under the eye offered just enough! My husband doesn't love make-up but can tolerate it. However, he absolutely abhors lipstick so I opted for a thin application of a blush-coloured gloss."

Be direct and open about your ambitions.

"Don’t assume that your bosses know your intentions. Be very clear about what you want and make sure you have a date set for when you want to achieve it by, e.g. 'I want to be promoted by September 2015.'

"Then the next important step is to ask your boss, 'What do you believe I need to do or achieve in order to make this happen?' By doing this you are both stating your ambition and allowing them to set the measurement. If you’ve achieved everything by that date it will be much harder for a boss to move the goalposts."

Adopt a power pose.

Changing your stance is another way of faking confidence. Social psychologist Amy Cuddy explains in a TED talk how "power poses" can affect testosterone and cortisol in the brain as well as influencing people's perceptions of you.

She conducted studies in which subjects were made to adopt powerful poses – such as placing their hands on their hips – before stressful or difficult situations and found they coped much better. So next time you have that big meeting, take two minutes, hide in the toilet, and pose like you mean it.

Drink a lot of coffee.

Coffee dates are a great way of sounding out careers. If you've done your research and there's a person you admire or whose job you want to find out more about, don’t be shy ask them if they want to meet up over a coffee. Most people will be flattered by your initiative and happy to share any pearls of wisdom or answer any questions.

]]>http://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/boost-your-careerTue, 13 Jan 2015 02:53:43 -0500<b>Be the boss.</b>isabelleocnonadultnonadultDon’t be embarrassed to make your intentions clear. As empowerment coach and speaker <a href="http://www.jodierogers.com/">Jodie Rogers</a> tells BuzzFeed Life:
"Don’t assume that your bosses know your intentions. Be very clear about what you want and make sure you have a date set for when you want to achieve it by, e.g. 'I want to be promoted by September 2015.'
"Then the next important step is to ask your boss, 'What do you believe I need to do or achieve in order to make this happen?' By doing this you are both stating your ambition and allowing them to set the measurement. If you’ve achieved everything by that date it will be much harder for a boss to move the goalposts."nonadultChanging your stance is another way of faking confidence. Social psychologist Amy Cuddy <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are?language=en">explains in a TED talk</a> how "power poses" can affect testosterone and cortisol in the brain as well as influencing people's perceptions of you.
She conducted studies in which subjects were made to adopt powerful poses – such as placing their hands on their hips – before stressful or difficult situations and found they coped much better. So next time you have that big meeting, take two minutes, hide in the toilet, and pose like you mean it.nonadultCoffee dates are a great way of sounding out careers. If you've done your research and there's a person you admire or whose job you want to find out more about, don’t be shy ask them if they want to meet up over a coffee. Most people will be flattered by your initiative and happy to share any pearls of wisdom or answer any questions.
There's a number of networking schemes in the UK that make it easy to connect, from <a href="http://wibn.co.uk/">Women in Business</a> to <a href="http://theathenanetwork.co.uk/">the Athena Network</a> (also for women) and the <a href="http://www.londonchamber.co.uk/lcc_public/article.asp?aid=3915">London Chamber</a> as well as nationwide sites like <a href="http://www.findnetworkingevents.com/">Find Networking Events</a>. It should be easy to find the perfect networking event for you to meet like-minded people.nonadultCreating a network of people is important, Shannon Edwards, the CEO of "shopping discovery engine" <a href="http://www.styloko.com/">Styloko</a>, tells BuzzFeed Life.
"Build and cultivate a circle of mentors and of mentees," she says. "Going beyond the always-good advice of not burning bridges, it’s critical to seek out and keep close to you talented people. These are the people who will support, teach, and lead alongside of you as your career grows."nonadult"People always look for senior mentors but I've always got brilliant support and advice from my peers," Sarah Drinkwater, the head of Google's <a href="https://www.campuslondon.com/">Campus London</a>, tells BuzzFeed Life. "Not only do they understand my very new field of work better, but they're more accessible."
Writer Ann Friedman advocates <a href="http://nymag.com/thecut/2013/05/shine-theory-how-to-stop-female-competition.html">Shine Theory</a>, which she sums up thus: "When you meet a woman who is intimidatingly witty, stylish, beautiful, and professionally accomplished, befriend her. Surrounding yourself with the best people doesn’t make you look worse by comparison. It makes you better."
Becoming a cheerleader for your peers can have great knock-on effects for you.nonadultUnleash your inner snoop and do some detective work on your dream job or industry. Research your future career by interviewing people currently working in it.
Rogers says we should "ask them why they chose the career, how did it meet their expectations, what was different than how they had imagined. Most importantly, ask them, if they were to do anything differently in terms of their career, what would it be?"
Use LinkedIn to look at people’s career paths and how they made it to where you want to be.nonadultBut act small. Have a big goal? Jodie Rogers says it's time to break things down: "Break the goal down into its component parts, then break each of those down into smaller goals, put them in chronological order and start at the beginning. If you want to run a marathon in August, you can break that down into many other goals: running progress, diet, weight, equipment etc.
"Each of these can be taken and broken down further. Taking diet, you could look at what runners need to eat to gain strength, what are the slow-releasing foods, what foods should runners avoid, what juices, smoothies, and supplements are best for joint nourishment and muscle recovery."
Breaking these big goals into smaller components makes achieving them feel a lot less daunting.
Planning is also a large part of work-related goals, Rogers says. "For starting a business, goals might be: Write a business plan, speak to bank about loans and investments, do market research, complete a competitor analysis, create products, research and plan pricing." This planning time is just as important as the execution.nonadultGet your smaller goals into the diary to get them done. "The fundamental difference between a dream and a goal is a date," Rogers says. "Once you put a date on something it moves it from concept to reality. It also creates a greater sense of urgency. We all work better with deadlines."
Want to study alongside work? Block out non-negotiable time if your diary. Once it's written down, you're much less likely to flake.nonadult"No matter what industry you are in, there is a bottom line and a company goal that everyone's work rolls up into," Edwards tells BuzzFeed Life.
"And no matter what your level or individual contribution (no role is too insignificant in this respect), your success will be in understanding how what you do contributes to this bottom line. Keep an eye on that and you have a leg up in building a career."nonadult"'Fake it till you make it' is a phrase that has served me well over my 20-year career," says Edwards.
"You need to stretch yourself (and your business, if a small-business owner) to where you want to be, and not rest in complacency at the place you are. If you ‘act’ strong, smart, successful – even if it feels like a stretch – you will catch up."nonadultFind your direction by daydreaming. Rogers tells BuzzFeed Life that we should be picturing our perfect life to see where it takes us: "If you’re not sure of your direction, imagine what your perfect day or week would look like. What are you doing?"
Writing on <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jodie-rogers/4-steps-to-finding-your-purpose_b_6155528.html">Finding Your Purpose</a>, Rogers says we should take some time to understand ourselves, using two key questions: "Who am I, and what type of life do I want to have?" Examine your beliefs, values, and what excites you.nonadultWhere can you upgrade your skills? "Do your research as there are so many good sources of advice and education out there," Drinkwater tells BuzzFeed Life. "At <a href="https://www.campuslondon.com/">Campus</a> we have free events every day on everything from launching a start-up to improving your social media skills."
If you find a particular course or day session that would benefit your career, your boss is much more likely to agree than if you make a vague request for training.nonadultIt's all about getting stuck in, Drinkwater explains. "Whether asking for a raise or making a complete career change, you learn best by doing. Nobody knows what you're capable of better than you, so trust your judgment and your gut."
What can you do right now to get you on the right path?nonadultTake opportunities but don't lose focus – it's all about balance. "Learning when to say yes and when to say no is important, and one I'm still working on," Drinkwater says. "At certain times in your career, the more you say yes, the more opportunities you'll have or even create – whether that's going to an event on your own or asking someone to have coffee with you.
"But you've got to balance that with saying no to anything that takes away your focus from what you're trying to do."nonadultAre you looking to get a big promotion or land a job to please your parents or for the recognition of your peers?
Learn to separate your own feelings of success from others and you’ll be better equipped to define success and what it means to you. It’s fine to do things to please others, but distinguish what you want from what others expect of you.nonadultLook at the people you consider successful in your workplace or industry. What is it they do that makes them so successful? Do they rely on face-to-face communication to get things done? Do they have a kickass set of stats ready for every meeting? Observe the people you look up to and examine what makes you put them on a pedestal.nonadultAesthetics matter. Whether it’s for practicality reasons (more time in bed) or because you want to create a signature look that chimes with your personality, prepping a few fail-safe basics is always a good idea. Find a uniform that works and stick to it.
For women in creative industries, something like jeans, sharp block-heel boots, and a luxe-y knit can work well, or for more formal workplaces, loafers, cigarette pants, and a shirt makes for an unbeatable look.
Get a rundown of some of the best places to stock up on workwear staples <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/jessicamisener/places-to-shop-in-your-late-twenties-and-early-th#.fqN1jNk2X">here</a>.nonadult"Do what you love" is often touted as the path to happiness, but sometimes living a fulfilling life means finding something secure that leaves you enough time for your hobbies.
A passion project doesn't always lead to financial success, and you might find that a job that pays the bills leads to a happier, more stable life. <a href="https://medium.com/@rachelnabors/dont-do-what-you-love-41312c943e2">Rachel Nabors talks here</a> about her journey from doing what she loved (making comics) to pursuing a successful career in web development. "If I’d kept 'doing what I love' in the industry that didn’t love me back," she writes, "I would have never realized that there are other, more profitable, things I love."nonadultLooking through job descriptions even if you’re not wanting to change can help you plan for your career future. Stay on the lookout for any skills or competencies you might need to acquire so you're not feeling behind when the time to take the next step comes.
Say you're a junior designer – checking out studio manager jobs can give you some insight into the skills and software you need to brush up on. Even if you're just starting out as an admin assistant, looking at HR manager or project coordinator roles can give you motivation and direction for your next role.nonadultMarketing strategist, writer, and entrepreneur <a href="http://meganmacedo.com//">Megan Macedo</a> warns people to be wary of so-called dream jobs. She tells BuzzFeed Life:
"Landing your dream job is what everyone talks about, but most people have no idea what their dream job is. And others get their dream job only to realise it's not so great. I got my dream research job after finishing my geology degree, and within weeks realised it was not the career for me. I went from geologist to marketing strategist in a series of lots of little steps over the next few years."nonadultBaby steps are still important, Macedo says. "I'm not a fan of overly specific long-term goals or five-year plans. Instead, I like to remember the power of a geological timescale – massive transformation happens with a consistent series of small changes.
"No one's career transforms overnight. It's always a culmination of lots of little, seemingly chaotic steps." Take a look around you and see what your first baby step might be.nonadultWhat did you get in trouble for at school? Believe it or not, looking at the things you got told off for is often a good indicator of what you can't help doing and could shed some light on your skills.
Take 30 mins to sit down and write down some of the things you got in trouble for at school and examine how they can be turned into strengths. Whether it was passing notes (communication), being naughty (testing boundaries), or even slacking off, your misbehaviour could give you an indication of what you should be doing in your career.
Marketing guru Perry Marshall recounts <a href="http://www.perrymarshall.com/14583/youre-fired/">how getting fired</a> taught him not to shy away from these fearful spots, but instead to harness them to move his career forward.nonadultDon't try to force results, says Macedo. "I treat all this stuff as experiments. Don't focus on outcomes, focus on doing things that will move the story of your career on and see what outcomes arise. The best opportunities find you, not the other way around."
Trying too hard to make something happen can just result in a lot of frustration. "Stop trying to force specific outcomes," she says. "Just conduct your experiments and see what opportunities arise."nonadultMacedo tells BuzzFeed Life that she created her own job by "sticking my nose where it didn't belong and ignoring my job description and chain of command.
"I was always surprised by how much scope there was to make a job what you want it to be – not by asking but by just little by little doing more of what you really want to."
Asking isn't always the best way to get. "You don't have to wait for an invitation to do what you really want to. Just start doing it."nonadultYou don't have to be great at everything. "Strengthen your strengths," Macedo says. "Focus on what you're naturally good at and like to do. Give up on the things you're not good at or hate doing it – delegate it."
Look at what you can easily delegate to colleagues, or even automate. As the <a href="http://websitegoddess.co.uk/">"Website Goddess"</a>, Macedo employs a team of web designers and technical wizards so she can focus on what she's good at.nonadultProperly recharging your batteries is essential if you want to be on top at work. Plan and make time for holidays, switch off at weekends, and do something relaxing in the evenings such as reading a book or exercising.
Even if a holiday isn't on the cards, just getting outdoors can leave you feeling refreshed and might just help generate that killer idea.nonadultTraditional linear careers are more frequently becoming the exception rather than the rule, so don’t be afraid to move sideways rather than up if a job gives you more fulfillment or better life quality.
Take that sabbatical, bargain for a work-from-home day, or ask for some training. The career ladder now goes in every direction.nonadult76 Thoughts Every Cyclist Has Had When Out For A Ridehttp://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/cyclist-has-when-out-for-a-bike-ride?utm_term=4ldqpia
SO HUNGRY.

Isabelle O'Carroll/BuzzFeed

1. Right, let's do this!

2. It's such a lovely day.

3. Not sure I can be bothered.

4. This is bullshit.

5. I don't know if I even enjoy cycling.

6. I could be watching Saturday Kitchen.

7. With a fry-up.

8. And a mug of tea.

9. On the couch. Mmm couch.

10. Is it too early to crack into that Snickers yet?

11. Long-sleeve or short-sleeve... Should have gone long.

12. Did I put the Snickers in my jersey pocket?

13. My knees feel creaky.

14. Come on, leg up, leg down, leg up, leg down.

15. Agh broken glass!

16. I hate hills.

17. I love hills.

18. Mmm, smell the fresh country air and look at the beautiful trees.

19. Oh my god! Look at the view! This is so gorgeous.

20. Ah this isn't so bad.

21. Oh it is lovely to be outside.

22. Wonder if I'll get a tan?

23. Those guys have got really cool jerseys.

24. I wonder if I could join a cycling club.

25. They probably laugh me out of the clubhouse. If they have a clubhouse?

26. Arse, I forgot to oil the gears. I could never join a cycling club.

]]>http://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/cyclist-has-when-out-for-a-bike-rideMon, 22 Sep 2014 05:21:28 -0400<b>SO HUNGRY.</b>isabelleocnonadultnonadult1. Right, let's do this!
2. It&#39;s such a lovely day.
3. Not sure I can be bothered.
4. This is bullshit.
5. I don&#39;t know if I even enjoy cycling.
6. I could be watching <i>Saturday Kitchen</i>.
7. With a fry-up.
8. And a mug of tea.
9. On the couch. Mmm couch.
10. Is it too early to crack into that Snickers yet?
11. Long-sleeve or short-sleeve... Should have gone long.
12. Did I put the Snickers in my jersey pocket?
13. My knees feel creaky.
14. Come on, leg up, leg down, leg up, leg down.
15. Agh broken glass!
16. I hate hills.
17. I love hills.
18. Mmm, smell the fresh country air and look at the beautiful trees.
19. Oh my god! Look at the view! This is so gorgeous.
20. Ah this isn&#39;t so bad.
21. Oh it is lovely to be outside.
22. Wonder if I&#39;ll get a tan?
23. Those guys have got really cool jerseys.
24. I wonder if I could join a cycling club.
25. They probably laugh me out of the clubhouse. If they have a clubhouse?
26. Arse, I forgot to oil the gears. I could never join a cycling club.
27. That noise is going to bother me.
28. Perhaps it&#39;s time to upgrade my bike.
29. I could do up an old frame.
30. Wonder if I can remember my <a href="http://www.lfgss.com/">LFGSS</a> forum password.
31. Have my thigh muscles grown?
32. Ooof huge lorry coming, sloo-ooow down.
33. God that never stops being slightly terrifying.
34. Are my friends in front or behind me?
35. Probably behind, maybe I should slow down.
36. Oh shit, they&#39;re in front of me.
37. Here goes off-seat cycling! Why is there no English word for <a href="http://www.velominati.com/look-pro/look-pro-en-danseuse/">en danseuse</a>?
38. This is fun, I feel like Bradley Wiggins.
39. But without the sideburns.
40. Right, catching up now.
41. And why is my mate looking so spritely?
42. Bastard.
43. I&#39;m gonna overtake her.
44. Oh look at that squashed bird/squirrel/rabbit.
45. Maybe I could take up taxidermy?
46. I could be a taxidermy artist, it would be like making a statement about something.
47. Oh god. Help, I&#39;m trapped inside my own mind!
48. SOS.
49. I hate this. I might try and cycle into a ditch and then I can go home.
50. Just swerve straight in, I really don&#39;t want to carry on.
51. Sooooooo over this.
52. Oh. I need a snack.
53. Why are there no sweet shops on these freakin country lanes?
54. Just going to elegantly grab a bit of flapjack from my jersey.
55. Almost.
56. Almost.
57. That&#39;s it, in the gob.
58. Such good oaty sustenance!
59. I feel much better, who do I always forget to bow down to the flapjack gods?
60. Oh well this cycling lark is a real pleasure, what a wonderful thing to do.
61. Hello there Mr Fellow Cyclist Man and Ms Fellow Cyclist Woman, good day to
you!
62. Hmph, they must have needed a bit of flapjack.
63. Can&#39;t wait till we get to the pub, I&#39;m gonna to have fish and chips.
64. Or a pie.
65. Or a burger.
66. And a pint.
67. Of your finest ale.
68. Maybe TWO pints.
69. So glad I decided to wear my padded cycle shorts.
70. I really need to get some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shimano_Pedaling_Dynamics">SPD&#39;s</a> though.
71. I should do this EVERY WEEKEND.
72. I&#39;m gonna get everyone out for another cycle next Saturday.
73. YEAH!
74. Glad I went with short sleeves.
75. I love cycling.
76. Donuts.nonadult18 Cute And Affordable Indie Designers You Should Know Abouthttp://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/british-indie-gems
Hidden gems.

Jenny Chang / BuzzFeed

Morning Mr Magpie

Designer Sally Beesley makes silver jewellery in Oxford for her jewellery label, Morning Mr Magpie. This pretty sterling silver ring is inspired by the hedgerows of Britain and is just £40.

You know how to tie a scarf, which is important because a courant d'air might incapacitate you for life.

Life wasn't worth living if you didn't have a K-Way.

]]>http://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/reasons-you-know-you-went-to-the-lycee-charles-de-v0emWed, 20 Aug 2014 05:49:56 -0400<b>Voulez vous parler franglais?</b>isabelleocnonadultSweet, fruity education.nonadultnonadultnonadultPronounced "kaweh" bien sure.nonadultnonadultI was in 4e 2, why is that so complicated?nonadultnonadultOnly to find that no one understands your curly-wurly handwriting.nonadultnonadultnonadultnonadultnonadultnonadultnonadultTwo... Damn!nonadultnonadultYou know that Cromwell is that guy who gave his name to the road in front of the school, but can&#39;t quite remember what he did.nonadultUntil you got to Domino&#39;s.nonadultnonadultBecause it&#39;s the RENTREE and you need FOURNITURES! Woe the person who gets their school supplies wrong. It&#39;s a four-colour biro, not four colour biros!nonadultnonadultnonadultnonadultnonadultnonadultnonadultSome of them even lived in war zones.nonadultBecause the teachers didn&#39;t.nonadultnonadultnonadult"You&#39;re representing France!"nonadultHow To Pack Like A Pro For Every Occasion: The Guys' Editionhttp://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/packing-lightly
More travel light tips.

The art of packing is a skill worth mastering. Packing like a pro means travelling light, but with (almost) everything you need. It's not just being able to put fewer things in a bag, it's also being at peace with presenting one version of yourself to the world, that's confidence.

Travelling light is freedom and joy, being open to new possibilities and spontaneous situations. With a mixture of a carefree attitude and a bit of planning it's easy to pack like a minimalist, taking only the Good Stuff with you.

First up you start with a travel outfit: This might vary but it should go something like: favourite jeans, a semi-smart trainer like a New Balance or Nike, plus some layering pieces you don't want to stash in your bag. A T-shirt with a hoodie is a great option, or a bomber jacket for the fashion lads out there.

Ailbhe Malone/ Isabelle O'Carroll for BuzzFeed

Pack for a minimal weekend away.

So you've been waiting all week for the weekend to start, but what to bring? Pretty much nothing to be honest – you want to be having fun, not lugging around an overstuffed bag.

Choose a simple bag like this Hershel backpack, which has an integrated tech sleeve, so you can slide in a shirt with an iPad or a Kindle (essential for whiling away a long journey). Just bring a T-shirt and a slightly creaseproof shirt (M&S does great ones). Stuff a pair of socks into the shirt collar to keep its shape.

Isabelle O'Carroll for BuzzFeed

Stores like COS do cloth bags with every purchase, use one of them or an old tote bag to keep your underwear, socks, and PJs separate from the rest of your stuff, also useful for sequestering funky laundry!

Toiletries are, at a minimum, basics like your toothbrush, razor (if you can't bear to be stubbly), moisturiser, and deodorant. Staying at a hotel or friend's house? Skip the shower gel. If you need to bring vitamins or painkillers, a giant pill box is perfect to decant.

]]>http://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/packing-lightlyWed, 30 Jul 2014 07:23:06 -0400<b>More travel light tips.</b>isabelleocnonadultThe art of packing is a skill worth mastering. Packing like a pro means travelling light, but with (almost) everything you need. It&#39;s not just being able to put fewer things in a bag, it&#39;s also being at peace with presenting one version of yourself to the world, that&#39;s confidence.
Travelling light is freedom and joy, being open to new possibilities and spontaneous situations. With a mixture of a carefree attitude and a bit of planning it&#39;s easy to pack like a minimalist, taking only the Good Stuff with you.
<b>First up you start with a travel outfit</b>: This might vary but it should go something like: favourite jeans, a semi-smart trainer like a New Balance or Nike, plus some layering pieces you don&#39;t want to stash in your bag. A T-shirt with a hoodie is a great option, or a bomber jacket for the fashion lads out there.nonadultSo you&#39;ve been waiting all week for the weekend to start, but what to bring? Pretty much nothing to be honest &ndash; you want to be having fun, not lugging around an overstuffed bag.
Choose <b>a simple bag</b> like this Hershel backpack, which has an integrated tech sleeve, so you can slide in a shirt with an iPad or a Kindle (essential for whiling away a long journey). Just bring <b>a T-shirt</b> and <b>a slightly creaseproof shirt</b> (M&amp;S does great ones). Stuff a pair of socks into the shirt collar to keep its shape.nonadultStores like COS do cloth bags with every purchase, use one of them or an old tote bag to <b>keep your underwear, socks, and PJs separate</b> from the rest of your stuff, also useful for sequestering funky laundry!
Toiletries are, at a minimum, basics like your toothbrush, razor (if you can&#39;t bear to be stubbly), moisturiser, and deodorant. Staying at a hotel or friend&#39;s house? Skip the shower gel. If you need to bring vitamins or painkillers, a giant pill box is perfect to decant.nonadultnonadultA week away usually necessitates a lot less stuff that you&#39;d think. <b>One extra pair of jeans</b>, some shorts, and a selection of shirts and tees in neutral-ish colours and prints will see you right for seven days.
<b>#Protip:</b>A rough guide is select around three tops for each trouser or short.
A <b>lightweight jumper</b> like this Aquascutum cashmere knit is a great stand-by. Uniqlo does a fine selection of merino knitwear that is really light and breathable. This time, if you want to bring a belt, roll that in the shirt collar.
Buy a clear pencil case to use as a toiletry bag that makes passport control less of a headache.
These <b>preppy loafers</b> will look good with anything and work for casual looks but will also step up to a dinner invitation. If you&#39;re a wannabe Craig David bring running shorts that double up as swimming trunks to keep up with your #eatclean #traindirty regime.nonadultA tiny case like this Victorinox wheelie lets you forego check-in and be the first out of the airport. Pack the shoes in first, stuffing all your socks in there. Use a plastic bag or shower cap to cover shoes. Roll all your knits and jerseys and stuff them around the shoes, laying the jeans and shirts on top.
Fit all your toiletries, tech and reading material in the front section for easy access, it&#39;s also an idea to <b>pack a tote</b> to dump any items you might need for the duration of your flight.nonadultnonadultGoing on a long trip, you might be tempted to bring a load of stuff, but as someone who once lugged an overstuffed rucksack &ndash; which contained a mini boombox among other things &ndash; around Europe for a month and a half, trust me, it ain&#39;t worth it!
Make sure your packing is all killer, no filler. Carrying around wardrobe dead weight is going to get really tiresome after week four so forget anything that you don&#39;t wear but you&#39;re sure will look so great on a beach in Goa, road trippin&#39; in the USA, or sightseeing in Europe.
If you&#39;re going away for an extended period of time, you&#39;re either going to have access to laundry facilities or be slumming it gap yah style, so you&#39;re really just going to want to bring a week&#39;s worth of basics and socks. <b>Lots of socks.</b>nonadultIt&#39;s all about <b>weather-appropriate trousers</b>, aka jeans, unless you&#39;re heading somewhere really hot &ndash; some shorts and enough T-shirts to last 10 days. <b>Flannel shirts don&#39;t crease</b>, and gingham is a great casual/formal go-anywhere piece. Everything top has to go with every bottom so a neutral palette with a few yolo T-shirts is a good idea. Bring two pairs of shoes, stuffed with socks as well as some flip flops if you&#39;re going to be frequenting gross showers.
You can easily wash your smalls (socks and underwear) in hotel sinks to keep you going for emergencies. Sports socks are a great choice just because they&#39;re so mini.
Take an old-school neoprene sleeve to keep all your tech bits in one place: a compact camera, travel adaptors, chargers, a portable speaker. Buying a portable charger for your electronics is a good idea. <b>Don&#39;t bother bringing a laptop</b>, if you must, take an iPad with a bluetooth keyboard.
Traveller&#39;s essentials like <b>a microfibre towel, insect repellent, and a compass</b> are all important for long-haul travel. A packable tote (the grey rectangle, above) is great to use as an overflow bag for souvenirs, novel food items, or those awesome hippy trousers you&#39;ll never wear back home.nonadultnonadultnonadultHow To Pack Like A Pro For Every Occasionhttp://www.buzzfeed.com/isabelleoc/gif-your-way-to-perfect-packing-for-holidays-week-v0em
Travel light, travel well.

Prepare to go away – even for just a day – and your mind fills with images of how you'll be your best self: stylish, event-appropriate, and with more outfit changes than Beyoncé. The reality is that unless your luggage is made up of monogrammed Vuitton cases, you will look a little crazy with loads of bags, and lugging heavy stuff is the worst.

Embrace the idea of packing lightly and presenting one, slightly variable version of yourself, and a whole world of freedom opens up. The luggage carousel becomes a distant memory and you're filled with smug pride when people notice how little you've managed to bring. It also helps you keep all your wardrobe losers at home, like the high-waisted shorts you can't do up after eating. Dream-team wardrobe only, please.

You'll want to start with a base outfit of your bulkiest items: jeans, neutral-ish top and fashion-appropriate trainers like Nike Free Runs or Vans Slip-ons are perfect.

Ailbhe Malone/ Isabelle O'Carroll for BuzzFeed

Travel super-light for an overnight stay.

Even committed maximalists can travel light on an overnight stay. A simple top and undies is really all you need.

Something like a stripy Breton top has enough impact to hide the fact you're wearing the same shoes and bottoms as the day before, and the nautical stripes work anywhere: at the pub, with the family, at fancy events, on outdoorsy days. Add an exciting piece of jewellery to make it look like you've really put some thought into your outfit, even though you've spent more time thinking about what to have for breakfast.

Isabelle O'Carroll for BuzzFeed

Lush does some great solid perfumes that are perfect for travelling, and no one ever died from using their eyebrow pencil to define their eyes. Going old-school with a space-saving comb and using clever cosmetics like Benefit lip and cheek stain will help prevent you carrying around a 2-ton bag for a couple of days. Decant – always decant – your favourite cleanser rather than slumming it with wipes; you'll feel much less like a stop-out and your skin will thank you.

#protip: Hoard those little cloth drawstring bags you get when buy clothes or shoes. They're perfect for stashing underwear, making it less likely that your worst pair of pants will come flying out when you're looking for your purse.